"He represented India. He was a brilliant all-rounder cricketer. He was known for his all-round ability and he was asset to any side he played for. He set a new height in the fielding department in Indian Cricket," said Shah, who is also the Secretary of Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA).
"A great loss to the cricketing world and his soul may rest in peace," he added.
The Australia-based cricketer, who was on a holiday in Mumbai, died at the Jaslok hospital where he had been admitted a few days ago following a 'stroke'.
Surti, who was a brilliant fielder too, played his 26th and final Test also at the same venue -- Cricket Club of India -- against Bill Lawry's Australian team in November, 1969.
Surti was an integral part of the team led by the late Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi during the 1960s and toured West Indies under Contractor in 1962.
CM
